In the first of Duck Sports Authority's Spring Focus series, we take a look at the defensive line. This was a position of concern with the graduation of three of four starters, and the situation became more interesting with the departure of Tonio Celotto.[details]

2005 (Redshirt): Took part in 11 games and drew starting assignments against Fresno State (69 plays) and USC (67), recording two tackles each against Houston and Oregon State. Credited with tackles for loss vs. Montana and the Beavers (24-yard loss) in addition to returning an interception 14 yards as well as forcing a fumble in the season finale. Yet no performance was more impressive than his 21 plays in the Holiday Bowl as he posted two assists and played a key role in limiting the Sooners to only 42 yards of total offense in the fourth quarter. In the classroom, earned Pac-10 academic all-conference honorable mention accolades.

2004 (Redshirt): Rewarded for his efforts in assisting preparations the week prior to the Washington game, was named the scout team’s defensive player of the week.

2003 (Redshirt):HIGH SCHOOL — The SuperPrep All-American was ranked among the top 60 defensive linemen in the country as well as the fourth-best prep prospect in Oregon (SuperPrep) for a program that finished his senior year with an 8-1 record. The two-time first-team all-state (The Oregonian) standout was credited with 90 tackles and two fumble recoveries for the 2003 Cowapa League champions after accumulating 125 takedowns (30 unassisted), 15 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback sacks as a junior. Named to the Tacoma News Tribune’s Western One-Hundred list in addition to receiving honorable mention among the newspaper’s Northwest Nuggets elite. Doubled as a track & field standout as he finished second in his final 3A state shot put championships.

OREGON - Hard work during the 2005 off-season paid dividends a year ago as he filled a valuable reserve role in the defensive line. His performance in the finale vs. Oklahoma served as a huge asset to his own confidence as well as his coaches as he now knows what it takes to be successful on every down. Possesses the drive to keep getting better and the intensity that won't allow him to settle for second-best. Really understands the game of football and maintains a maturity uncommon to players of his relative inexperience. Has demonstrated an ability as a playmaker and coaches impressed with an attitude that constantly pushes him to succeed. Inserted into the rotation early based on knowing his assignments but play now will be dictated more on results. Needs to strengthen his upper body and not overly impressive by stopwatch standards yet compensates with an anticipation and uncanny sense of being in the midst of the action. Possesses a relentless drive that is conducive to becoming an excellent pass rusher.